Romania's Endorsement of Moroccan Sovereignty
Romania has officially expressed its belief that "genuine autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty could be a viable solution" to the ongoing dispute regarding the Moroccan Sahara. This significant statement was conveyed in a message from Romanian President Nicușor Dan to King Mohammed VI, underscoring Romania's supportive stance on this contentious issue. President Dan highlighted that the autonomy plan proposed by Morocco in 2007 is regarded as the most suitable, serious, credible, and realistic foundation for achieving a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable resolution to the political situation in the region.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties and Cooperation
The Romanian President's remarks were made following a thorough evaluation of recent developments concerning the Sahara issue, which he noted is of great importance to Morocco. He mentioned that Romania was among the first nations to publicly support Morocco's position on the Sahara and commended the efforts made by King Mohammed VI in this regard in 2022. President Dan reiterated that Romania's evolving stance aligns with its European and global commitments, suggesting a commitment to a collaborative approach moving forward.
The message, delivered by Dacian Cioloș, an advisor to the Romanian President and former Prime Minister, was presented to Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita. After the meeting, Cioloș emphasized Morocco's role as Romania’s primary partner within the MENA region, praising the long-standing and fruitful cooperation between the two countries across diplomatic, economic, and educational sectors. Cioloș, who is also a candidate for the Secretary-General of the International Organization of Francophonie (OIF), acknowledged Morocco's strategic position in fostering relationships with French-speaking nations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
He advocated for a modernized Francophonie that adapts to contemporary changes and meets the aspirations of the youth, highlighting the French language as a vital tool for employment, entrepreneurship, and enhancing regional and international collaboration among French-speaking nations. The close ties between Romania and Morocco are bolstered by linguistic similarities and a shared commitment to the French language, with Romania being one of the most Francophone countries in Eastern Europe.
In terms of educational collaboration, Cioloș noted that over 1,200 Moroccan students are currently studying in Romania, a testament to the positive impact of educational exchanges on bilateral relations. Economically, he pointed out significant opportunities for cooperation, especially within the automotive and construction industries, where various Romanian companies have invested in Morocco. Romania's supportive position regarding the Sahara issue is part of a broader international momentum, led by King Mohammed VI, advocating for Morocco's sovereignty and the Moroccan autonomy plan. This movement has gained traction with the participation of approximately thirty European nations, including 24 EU member states, and more than two-thirds of UN member states worldwide.
As reported by northafricapost.com.
